STEM CELLS: What's the Issue?

What are Stem Cells?Stem cells are cells that are not yet differentiated into a particular type of cell. They can become a variety of different cells depending on whether they are totipotent (can become any type of cell), pluripotent (somewhat restricted to what they can become), or multipotent (can become only a small amount of different cell types). Scientists hope these cells can be used to treat a wide variety of diseasesWhere Do They Come From?Stem cells can come from blastocysts (Embryotic Stem Cells) or they can come from a fetus or an organism that has already been born (Adult Stem Cells). Embryotic Stem Cells are mostly pluripotent after the blastocyst is formed. Adult Stem Cells are mostly multipotent so they can be used for repairing tissue if necessary. Adult cells are taken from fetal tissue, cord blood, and bone marrow for the most part.Why the Debate?Being pluripotent, scientists are looking more toward Embryotic Stem Cells for curing disease. However, the use of stem cells from a blastocyst has brought up debate on the matter. Some say that it is immoral to do so because embryos become fetuses which become human beings. They see the use of Embryotic Stem Cells to be equivalent to murdering another human being. However, others claim that using these cells is not immoral, but are actually for the good of mankind. They state that using these cells will save human lives which justifies the fact that used embryos are unable to become human beings. This issue can be found around the world and permeates the politics of numerous nations. See here for the current policies certain nations have on the use/research of stem cells: http://www.mbbnet.umn.edu/scmap.html